Multiple Fatalities Reported in East Roseville Parkway Collision
Four people died in a car accident in Granite Bay on December 14 after the driver lost control and crashed into a tree. The fatal collision occurred at the East Roseville Parkway intersection with Brackenbury Way at about 9:04 p.m. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that the driver and three passengers in the vehicle died in the collision.
Fatal Car Accident Being Investigated by Authorities
The identities of those who died were three Granite Bay residents, Patrick Gainer, age 65, Karan Pannu, age 45, and Paul Hammack, age 53. A Roseville resident, Jerry Cepel, 61, was identified as the driver. An investigation into the reason for the accident is underway by the CHP to determine what happened to cause it.
Liability for Passenger Deaths in an Accident
Drivers are responsible for the safety of their passengers. If the driver was negligent and caused an injury or fatal accident, they could be held responsible for the harm they caused. If the driver dies in the collision as well, their estate might be held liable for the deaths of passengers.
Wrongful Death Claims in a Fatality Accident
In a wrongful death claim, the family of the deceased may seek damages due to the loss of their loved one. The damages sought by the family can vary but usually include compensation for end-of-life expenses, lost wages and benefits until their normal age of retirement, pain and suffering for those left behind and other related losses. The burden of proof in a wrongful death claim is generally higher than most civil cases and requires showing that the defendant was negligent or committed an act of recklessness that led to the person’s demise.
Punitive Damages Awarded Following a Wrongful Death
In California, the family may also be able to pursue punitive damages, which serve as a form of punishment against the party who caused the death. Punitive damages are awarded in addition to wrongful death compensation and are often much higher. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the death of your loved one, you may wish to ask your injury lawyer whether you can ask for punitive damages in your case.
The Importance of Legal Assistance
The time to file for wrongful death is limited, so it’s important for families to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer can help the family navigate the legal process, including collecting evidence to support their claim for wrongful death while they grieve in peace by knowing their case is in good hands. It is also important to note that wrongful death claims are complex and can involve multiple parties, such as the government entity that placed a tree in a dangerous spot for motorists.
The possibility of multiple parties being liable in a fatality car accident makes it difficult for a family to pursue compensation on their own. With the help of an experienced attorney, however, families can seek justice for the loss of their loved one and obtain the compensation they deserve.
Sacramento Auto Accident Attorneys
I am Ed Smith, and I am a Sacramento Car Accident Attorney. When you or a member of your family are injured or you’ve lost a loved one, you are welcome to contact our injury lawyers for free and friendly advice. We can be contacted at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400. If it would be more convenient for you, you have the option of using our online form.
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Photo attribution: Image by Andreas Lischka from Pixabay
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